Enlarge

State of the German Order, 15th c. Silver-gilt, garnet, coloured glass From Vilnius Cathedral Treasury; entered the Lithuanian Art Museum in 1985 Inv.nr. L-1 http://www.ldm.lt/Lobynas/vitrina_IIe.htm Chalice used by the Knights of the German Order.

This chalice has a six-lobed foot, developed in the 14th century when it was common to lay a chalice on its side during the celebration of Catholic Mass. The lobes on the foot prevented the chalice from rolling away.

Compare this chalice with a similar one used by the Knights of the German Order, active in Germany until 1525. These knights answered to the Pope of the Roman Catholic Church and took vows of poverty and obedience. Do you think this chalice could have also belonged to the Knights of the German Order?

<< Back